Welcome to my world! Meet Ella Casto

Hi! I’m Ella Casto, the founder and CEO of Ella’s Aesthetics, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to my little corner of the internet. Here, you’ll find everything from skincare tips to self-care inspiration, confidence-boosting advice, and of course, my love for the color pink! This blog is my way of connecting with you, sharing my passion for aesthetics, and giving you a front-row seat to all the crazy (and exciting) things happening in my life.

A Glimpse into My Journey

I was born in Birmingham, Alabama, where my dad was attending medical school. Shortly after, we moved to Utah. My parents divorced when I was young, so I spent my childhood moving between Draper, Sandy, Cottonwood, and eventually Alpine. Making friends was always tough for me. I bounced from group to group, never quite fitting in. From second grade onward, I was bullied—by peers and even their parents—and it only worsened in junior high. It became unbearable, which led me to transfer schools.

I started high school at Skyridge, a school known for its mix of unique personalities, which turned out to be the perfect fit for me. It was a relief to finally feel like I belonged somewhere. But after a while, I decided to give Lone Peak, my original boundary school, another try. Unfortunately, my mental health took a hit there, and the bullying returned, pushing me into deep depression and overwhelming anxiety. Realizing I needed a change, my parents transferred me back to Skyridge, where I ultimately graduated a year early, eager to move on.

From Medicine to Skincare: Finding My Passion

Growing up, my plan was always to become a doctor or surgeon. I loved watching surgeries and being around medicine. But when graduation rolled around, I hit a wall. After taking on double coursework in high school, I was burned out. The thought of more school didn’t excite me, but I still had this deep desire to help people.

At 15, I started getting lash extensions, which became my confidence booster. I felt put together without wearing heavy makeup, and it was such a game-changer for me. My lash tech was my inspiration. She told me about her journey through esthetician school, and when she mentioned how much she wished she had gotten her master esthetician license (hello, chemical peels!), I was hooked. I didn’t know much about medical treatments in skincare, but I loved the idea of it.

That next fall, I decided to dive into esthetician school with the mindset that if I wanted to pursue more education later, I’d have a solid career in the meantime.

My Aesthetic Journey: From School to Solo Practice

I attended esthetician school from August 2021 to April 2022 and earned my master license. Funny enough, lash extensions—what got me into the field—ended up not being my thing. I could do them well, but the physical toll on my back and neck just wasn’t worth it. But when we started learning about chemical peels, microneedling, and more advanced treatments, that’s when I found my true passion.

After graduating, I hit a tough spot. Despite applying to countless med spas, I couldn’t land a single interview due to lack of experience. Utah’s aesthetic industry is insanely saturated, and I felt stuck. Finally, I secured a part-time position at a med spa, shadowing their esthetician and working one day a week with clients. My clientele at that point? Pretty much just my mom and a few close family members.

Eventually, I found another med spa that gave me more opportunities to grow, even though I spent a lot of time at the front desk. Slowly but surely, I started building real connections and gaining clients. About six months later, I was working full-time as an esthetician, performing treatments I loved and learning every chance I got.

But even then, something was missing. I couldn’t sell or promote products I didn’t believe in, and I knew I wanted to do things my way.

Taking the Leap: Ella’s Aesthetics

With a lot of faith and not much money saved, I took the leap and opened my own practice. It was nerve-wracking, but I had a gut feeling it was the right move. Now, four months in, I can confidently say it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. Running your own business is a 24/7 job, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I love the freedom, the control, and most importantly, the ability to help others feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

I am beyond grateful for everyone who has supported me on this journey, and I’m excited to see where Ella’s Aesthetics will go next. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me, and I hope you stick around for more skincare tips, self-care talks, and a peek into my life.

Here’s to confidence, care, and a whole lot of pink!

xoxo - thepinkestie